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Endobronchial radiotherapy for malignant bronchial obstruction or recurrence
R Hatlevoll1, K O Karlsen, E Skovlund
1Department of Oncology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo.
Acta Oncologica (Stockholm, Sweden)
|February 9, 2000
Summary
Intrabronchial radiotherapy (IBRT) effectively palliates symptoms in lung cancer patients with recurrence or obstruction. However, higher IBRT doses may increase the risk of fatal hemoptysis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiotherapy
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Lung cancer recurrence and endobronchial obstruction significantly impact patient quality of life.
- Previous treatments, including external radiotherapy and surgery, may not fully resolve symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intrabronchial radiotherapy (IBRT) for symptom palliation in lung cancer patients.
- To determine the optimal IBRT dosage for symptom relief while minimizing adverse events.
Main Methods:
- Forty-five lung cancer patients with recurrence and/or endobronchial obstruction were treated with high-dose-rate IBRT.
- Treatment regimens included planned doses of 18 Gy in three fractions or 15 Gy as a single dose, with variations administered.
- Patient outcomes, including palliation of dyspnea, hemoptysis, cough, and atelectasis, were assessed.
Main Results:
- Sixty-four percent of patients achieved palliation of dyspnea.
- Significant palliation of hemoptysis (12/14) and cough (11/17) was observed.
- Improvement in atelectasis occurred in 11/26 patients, with enhanced dyspnea palliation noted for doses > 15 Gy.
Conclusions:
- Intrabronchial radiotherapy (IBRT) offers effective palliation for symptoms associated with lung cancer recurrence and obstruction.
- While higher IBRT doses (> 15 Gy) improve dyspnea palliation, they are associated with a significantly increased risk of fatal hemoptysis.